The Cost of Driving From Amherst, MA to New York, NY Based on Current Gas Prices

Driving from Amherst, Massachusetts to New York, New York is a popular road trip for those looking to explore the sights and sounds of one of America's most iconic cities. However, before hitting the road, it's important to take into consideration the cost of the trip based on current gas prices. In this blog post, we'll explore different driving routes, their distances, time it takes, and cost, so you can choose the best option for your wallet.

Route 1: Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and I-84

One of the most common routes to take when driving from Amherst to New York is via the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and I-84. This route has a distance of about 155 miles and takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes to drive. According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Massachusetts as of July 2021 is $3.02 per gallon. Based on a car with an average MPG of 25, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $18.60, not including tolls.

Speaking of tolls, there are two main tolls on this route to take into account. The first toll is the entrance toll for the Massachusetts Turnpike, which currently costs $1.50. The second toll is for the New York State Thruway, which costs $12.50. With these tolls combined with the cost of gas, the total cost for this route would be approximately $32.60.

Route 2: I-91 and I-95

Another option for driving from Amherst to New York is via I-91 and I-95. This route has a distance of about 210 miles and takes approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes to drive. According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Connecticut as of July 2021 is $3.08 per gallon. Based on a car with an average MPG of 25, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $29.60, not including tolls.

This route has a total of three main tolls to take into account. The first two tolls are for the Connecticut Turnpike and the third toll is for the New York State Thruway. The cost for the Connecticut Turnpike tolls is $4.10 and $2.70 respectively. The toll for the New York State Thruway is $12.50. With these tolls combined with the cost of gas, the total cost for this route would be approximately $49.90.

Route 3: Scenic Route via Route 7 and Route 44

For those who prefer a leisurely drive with scenic views, a route via Route 7 and Route 44 is a great option. This route has a distance of about 225 miles and takes approximately 5 hours to drive. According to GasBuddy, the average gas price in Connecticut as of July 2021 is $3.08 per gallon. Based on a car with an average MPG of 25, the cost of gas for this route would be approximately $32.40, not including tolls.

There is only one toll on this route, which is for the New York State Thruway and costs $12.50. With this toll combined with the cost of gas, the total cost for this scenic route would be approximately $44.90.

Conclusion

Taking into account the cost of gas and tolls, the cost of driving from Amherst, Massachusetts to New York, New York ranges from about $32.60 to $49.90. The cheapest option is via the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) and I-84, while the most expensive option is via I-91 and I-95. For those who prefer a leisurely drive with scenic views, the route via Route 7 and Route 44 is a great option that won't break the bank. So, pack up your car and hit the road to explore New York City without having to spend a fortune on getting there.